Clarity, focus, concise presentation of the message
Quality detail that provides authenticity
Good research for support
Definition:
Ideas are all about information. That information can come from a writer’s own experience and observation (experiential research), formal research, reading, or talking with others. Knowing a topic well is the first step toward strong ideas. In addition, the writer must select details that paint a clear picture in the reader’s mind and eliminate unnecessary information. Because knowledge of the topic is essential to good writing, a writer must first determine what he or she does not know and then research the topic to gather additional needed information. Several things make ideas work well:
A solid, main idea that’s clear and identifiable.
Interesting, relevant, accurate details and support that expand or clarify a main idea and bring it to life.
Clarity so that the message makes sense and can be readily understood.
Concise presentation that shows respect for a reader’s busy schedule.
ORGANIZATION
Definition:
Organization is the internal structure or design of a writing piece. It gives ideas direction, purpose, and momentum, guiding the reader skillfully from point to point. Good organization holds a piece of writing together, making it easy to see the big picture- much the way puzzle pieces fit to create a recognizable image. It also makes reading easier. Readers can follow the writer’s thinking easily when they have a pattern (comparison-contrast, problem-solution) to help them. Several things make organization work well:
A basic beginning-middle-end structure: In this unit, we’ll revise this terminology to reflect function- lead, expansion, conclusion.
A lead that identifies the purpose and gives an immediate sense of direction
A conclusion that wraps up the discussion and sometimes indicates next steps
A structure that guides the reader’s thinking, leading to logical conclusions
VOICE
Definition:
Voice is the writer’s personality and individuality, translated to the page. It is also enthusiasm, energy, curiosity, and commitment. Voice shows that a writer cares about his/her audience and topic. Voiceless writing is lifeless. Voice is often interpreted as an extension of the writer- and this is true. Each of us has an individual style. It is also a tool for connecting with readers and can be consciously applied through a number of strategies. Several things to help achieve voice in writing:
Noticing voice in the writing of others- and analyzing their strategies
Reading aloud to hear the voice in a piece-including one’s own writing
Knowing the topic, which creates a confident voice
Choosing topics about which you as a writer feel curious or enthusiastic
Using strong imagery or sensory details to bring a scene to life
Writing with honesty
Keeping the audience in mind and responding to their needs/preferences
Using a voice that is appropriate for the context (e.g. business letter)
WORD CHOICE
SENTENCE FLUENCY
CONVENTIONS
This advanced level illustrates ways the six traits shift slightly across genre to accommodate purpose and audience. For example:
Ideas in a memoir reflect personal experience, while ideas in a research piece reflect information assembled from a wide range of sources
Voice in a business letter takes on a professional tone appropriate in a business setting, while voice in a film review, though still professional, may also be ardent, passionate, and opinionated.
Writing Traits Prezi
IDEAS
- Clarity, focus, concise presentation of the message
- Quality detail that provides authenticity
- Good research for support
Definition:Ideas are all about information. That information can come from a writer’s own experience and observation (experiential research), formal research, reading, or talking with others. Knowing a topic well is the first step toward strong ideas. In addition, the writer must select details that paint a clear picture in the reader’s mind and eliminate unnecessary information. Because knowledge of the topic is essential to good writing, a writer must first determine what he or she does not know and then research the topic to gather additional needed information.
Several things make ideas work well:
ORGANIZATION
Definition:Organization is the internal structure or design of a writing piece. It gives ideas direction, purpose, and momentum, guiding the reader skillfully from point to point. Good organization holds a piece of writing together, making it easy to see the big picture- much the way puzzle pieces fit to create a recognizable image. It also makes reading easier. Readers can follow the writer’s thinking easily when they have a pattern (comparison-contrast, problem-solution) to help them.
Several things make organization work well:
VOICE
Definition:Voice is the writer’s personality and individuality, translated to the page. It is also enthusiasm, energy, curiosity, and commitment. Voice shows that a writer cares about his/her audience and topic. Voiceless writing is lifeless. Voice is often interpreted as an extension of the writer- and this is true. Each of us has an individual style. It is also a tool for connecting with readers and can be consciously applied through a number of strategies.
Several things to help achieve voice in writing:
WORD CHOICE
SENTENCE FLUENCY
CONVENTIONS
This advanced level illustrates ways the six traits shift slightly across genre to accommodate purpose and audience. For example: